Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's something truly comforting about a warm bowl of ground beef stroganoff, with its creamy sauce and hearty flavors. This quick and easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something fast, filling, and family-approved. It’s now a regular in our rotation, delivering that perfect mix of nostalgia and practicality every time.

Why You'll Love This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this foolproof dinner. Not only is it ridiculously delicious, but it's also designed to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

First, this recipe is all about speed. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those nights when you’re juggling work, errands, and family time.

It’s also a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Using ground beef instead of pricier cuts makes this a dish you can make any night of the week without breaking the bank.

And let’s talk about versatility! You can swap in different pasta shapes, tweak the seasoning, or even add extra vegetables to make it your own. This recipe truly adapts to your preferences.

Lastly, the rich, creamy sauce combined with tender beef and noodles is pure comfort food magic. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this ground beef stroganoff lies in its simple ingredients, each bringing something essential to the table.

Ground beef is the star here. Choose an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and texture. It provides just enough fat to create a rich, flavorful base without overwhelming the dish.

For the sauce, a mix of beef broth, sour cream, and a touch of flour creates that signature creamy consistency. Sour cream is key here, adding tanginess and depth to the dish. If you're out of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute.

Mushrooms are optional but highly recommended. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the beef and sauce, giving the dish an extra layer of complexity.

You’ll also need egg noodles, which are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. While other pasta shapes will work, egg noodles provide the ideal texture and bite.

Finally, don’t skip the seasoning! A little garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika go a long way in making the flavors pop.

You’ll only need a large skillet and a pot for the noodles, making cleanup just as easy as cooking.

How To Make This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

This recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple steps, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and cooking your egg noodles according to the package directions. Be sure to salt the water generously for the best flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess grease and return the skillet to the stove.

Next, add diced onions to the skillet with the beef. Cook until they’re softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using mushrooms, toss them in at this stage and let them sauté until tender.

Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the beef and onions. This step helps thicken the sauce later. Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring, making sure there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in sour cream. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently until it’s rich and creamy.

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Let everything heat through for a minute or two, then serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious when reheated.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stroganoff. Pack it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

When reheating, be careful not to overcook, as the sauce can separate if it gets too hot. Low and slow is the way to go!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs.

For a healthier twist, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get that hearty, comforting flavor but with less fat.

Vegetarian? No problem. Skip the beef entirely and double up on mushrooms or add lentils for protein.

If you want to pack in extra veggies, stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers during the final steps. They’ll cook quickly and add vibrant color and nutrition.

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute for thickening.

Feeling fancy? Add a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering. It adds a subtle, elegant depth of flavor that takes this humble dish to the next level.

This recipe is truly a blank canvas for your creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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